Consensually non-monogamous partnerships seeking out therapy: a phenomenological approach

Abstract

Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) is an umbrella term used to describe romantic, emotional, and/or sexual relationships that are not limited between two people. CNM can vary in terms of its structure and specific explanations or labels; however, the key foundations consist of open and honest communication, establishment of clear boundaries and expectations, and agreement and informed consent among all partners. There is a lack of research on CNM relationships in general, but even more so on CNM relationships and relationship therapy. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to understand the common experience of CNM partnerships seeking out relationship therapy. Participants were interviewed in a semi-structured format with their current partner(s) and asked about their reason(s) for seeking therapy, how they searched for a therapist, and what facilitators and barriers they experienced in this process. The following themes were common in the process of seeking out a relationship therapist: deciding who will be involved in therapy, navigating how to find a CNM informed therapist, identifying hesitations towards starting therapy, and attempting therapy or stopping the search process entirely. This study highlights the need for clinicians to be educated and informed on relationship inclusive practices.